How to Remove a Dresser Top

Mason Howard

Over time dresser tops can suffer the results of excessive use and fall into disrepair. They can become warped, cracked or stained and the finish or paint can peel or blister. Remove the ill-fated top from your dresser in order to refinish it or replace it with a new top. The original dresser top is easy to remove with just a few basic tools and refinishing or replacing the top will rejuvenate the appearance of your entire dresser.

Step 1

Run a utility knife along the corner at the underside of the dresser top where it meets the main body of the dresser. This will break the seal created by the finish and make for a nice, clean break once the top is removed.

Step 2

Remove the top drawer. Look through the drawer opening and locate the screws that hold the dresser top to the main body of the dresser.

Step 3

Use a screwdriver to remove the screws.

Step 4

Gently tap the underside of the dresser top with a hammer to dislodge it from the main body of the dresser.